The Year 10 science excursion to the Translational Research Institute (TRI) Brisbane, extended our knowledge on DNA and further educated us on extracting and analysing recombinant DNA; in our case bacterial DNA which now contained green fluorescent protein taken from jelly fish, allowing it to glow under UV light. It was a new experience having the opportunity to use scientific technology and equipment such as pipettes and centrifuges, working in pairs to extract plasmid DNA from the transformed bacterial cells. The experiment separated the plasmid DNA from the bacteria using the three following techniques: 

1. DNA extraction 

2. Restriction enzyme digestion 

3. Gel electrophoresis                    

Throughout the day, we all had an enjoyable time and by the end, we had successfully separated DNA fragments. Even having the opportunity to dress in scientific lab coats brought about smiles and was a new experience for all of us! 

Emma Suttle (Year 10 student)

Science Club

After all the disruptions term 1, Science Club is finally starting again in Term 2. If you like science and want to have a bit of fun, then why not come along to science club. Science club is very hands-on, with a student-centred approach. Science club regulars may also be offered to participate in other extra-curricular science activities. This term’s topic will be forensics, and students will analyse for example fingerprints, fibres, blood spatter patterns, soil, and handwriting. As a culminating activity, students will apply skills they have learned to analyse a crime scene.

Each week there is a lucky door prize for a $6 tuckshop voucher and a pick from the prize box. Get an ‘admit one’ from your science teacher for a bonus entry ticket to increase your chances of a prize.

Science Club

Lunch 1, O1 lab

Bring your lunch

All year levels welcome